Audi Unplugs Electric R8
The R8 e-tron debuted three years ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and continued to appear on the auto-show circuit over the last few years. A limited-production version was set to hit the streets at the end of this year.
Power came from four electric motors — two on each axle — and a large lithium-ion battery pack that sat behind the passengers. Audi put total output at 313 horsepower and boasted a zero to 62 mph time of 4.8 seconds.
According to the automaker, the R8 e-tron could be charged on a 240-volt household outlet in six to eight hours. “In the final design stage of the Audi e-tron, the battery will enable a range of about 250 km (155.34 miles),” the automaker said in a statement.
Sounds plausible, right? Not according to Wolfgang Dürheimer, Audi’s new head of research and design. Wired reports that the change in management as well as range issues and a shifted focus toward plug-in vehicles is what ultimately killed the program. According to Wired, Audi is developing plug-in hybrid versions of the A1, A3, A4, A6 and Q7 SUV in place of its electric car program.
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Audi Ditches Plans to Sell Electric Supercar? (Wired)
Audi Puts e-tron On Le Mans Track
Audi e-Tron Concept at Frankfurt Motor Show
